My Story

On the 14th April 2024, I will be taking part in my first ever marathon in Manchester. If this is not challenging enough, three weeks later I will be taking on the Isle of Wight Challenge. This will see me run 106km in under 24 hours. So why am I doing it? I have been part of Team Daisy for a number of years which raises funds in memory of Daisy Chalmers. Daisy is the daughter of Wayne and Sarah Chalmers. Sadly, Daisy passed away in 2018 annd they have been fundraising ever since!

The Daisy Suite appeal is now in full swing as funds are being raised towards a new bereavement suite at Northampton General Hospital.

This appeal is for a designated base for the bereavement midwives within the maternity ward at Northampton General Hospital as they currently are based elsewhere in the hospital. This move and designated bereavement area will enhance the services they are able to offer families following a loss.

The suite will provide two quiet/counselling service rooms where families will be able to come for counselling and spend time with their baby that has died after leaving the Snowdrop room on the labour ward. The rooms will also be used for follow up appointments.

There will also be a small kitchen area where refreshments can be made for distressed parents and have a storage area for patient records and equipment such as memory boxes and other mementoes/knitted donations that are given to families following a loss.

The suite will have a massive impact on our patients. For bereaved families to be able to return to an area that is designated for bereaved families only will not cause additional distress, as is currently the case. Families at present are required to return to their follow up appointments in an area where pregnant women are attending their appointments too. The area they currently attend is also very busy and this new designated area will also allow for quiet contemplation and open discussion.

So your kind donations really can make a difference! Please spare anything you can.